Therapeutic relationship

The therapeutic relationship is defined as the interaction between the OT and the client.  A good therapeutic relationship is so important to the success of the therapy you provide.  Therapeutic relationships are different from friendships in that instead of both people benefiting from the relationship, only one person is benefiting, the client.  There are several great qualities or skills that one can use to improve the therapeutic relationship.  A few examples include active listening, good verbal and nonverbal communication, empathy, and respect.  Active listening involves restatement of what the client said, reflection of the feelings behind the statements made, and clarification to summarize the thoughts and feelings of the client.  Verbal communication involves disclosing thoughts and asking questions where nonverbal communication involves facial expressions, eye contact, and body language. Empathy, as defined by the OTPF, is the emotional exchange between the OT and client to allow for more open communication that results in a better therapeutic relationship.  Last, respect is so important in that the therapists should respect the individuality of the client's condition while also letting the client know that they are not alone in their struggles.  Working on these few qualities could highly enhance the very important therapeutic relationship.  Having a good therapeutic relationship will only improve the care and the results of the treatment you are providing.